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Happiness in the eyes of DeKalb
by John E. Werhan
http://tinyurl.com/7ykmr69
While recently reading "The Life of Francis Marion" by
M.L. Weems, I came across a conversation between Major
General Johann DeKalb, General Francis Marion, General
Peter Horry and several of their subordinates that
reflected the mindset of these Revolutionary Generals.
General DeKalb, after noting his last visit to his
parents in France before coming to America, moved
General Marion to conclude, "...that there is more
happiness in low life than in high life; in a cottage
than in a castle." /1
At this, Marion asked DeKalb his opinion of this
matter. DeKalb said:
"Why, gentlemen, since you have been so
polite as to ask my opinion, I will as
frankly give it, though I am afraid it will
seem very odd, especially coming from a
soldier. However, be that as it may, my
opinion you have asked, and my opinion you
shall have; which is, that religion is the
only thing to make a man happy in cottages
or courts."/2
Many of the noted Generals of the American Revolution
understood the importance of religion in the lives of
individuals. This truism has not changed, if one is to
truly find happiness it is imperative to understand
that it is found in Christ Jesus.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus sets forth to
enumerate the foundational principles of true
happiness.
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs
is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those
who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the gentle, for they shall
inherit the earth. Blessed are those who
hunger and thirst for righteousness, for
they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the
merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they
shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who have been persecuted
for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is
the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when
people insult you and persecute you, and
falsely say all kinds of evil against you
because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your
reward in heaven is great; for in the same
way they persecuted the prophets who were
before you" (Matthew 5:3-12).
The word translated "blessed" that precedes each of
these foundational points can also be translated
"happy" from the original word. In essence if one
desires true happiness they must seek and apply this
foundation to their lives.
In our world today, individuals seek happiness in every
place but where it is truly found. Then they wonder why
they are not happy.
If you desire to find true happiness, you must begin in
the inspired word of God seeking his plan of
redemption. Then applying God's commands for salvation
by having your sins washed away in baptism (Mark 16:16;
Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; Romans 6:4; Galatians 3:26-27;
Acts 10:47-48; Matthew 28:18-20).
Following that, we live a faithful life unto death
(Revelation 2:10b; 22:14). The New Testament is the
only guide to true happiness. Within its folds one
finds the way of salvation and the lifestyle that leads
to heaven.
It is my hope and prayer that you will seek God’s truth
for your true happiness.
_____
1/ Weems, M.L. "The Life of General Francis
Marion" (Memoirs of General Peter Horry), Philadelphia,
1829, Project Gutenberg’s E-text of The Life of General
Francis Marion
___________
John preachers for the The Northeast church of Christ
in Sentinel, Oklahoma.
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